Navigating college choice: the influence of parental education, advice source, and anticipated belonging
Pittman, Ravon
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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/129967
Description
Title
Navigating college choice: the influence of parental education, advice source, and anticipated belonging
Author(s)
Pittman, Ravon
Issue Date
2025-07-22
Director of Research (if dissertation) or Advisor (if thesis)
Khuri ,. Lydia
Committee Member(s)
Napolitano, Chris
Ratner ,. Kaylin
Department of Study
Educational Psychology
Discipline
Educational Psychology
Degree Granting Institution
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Degree Name
M.S.
Degree Level
Thesis
Keyword(s)
College Choice
Language
eng
Abstract
This study examined how students' anticipated sense of belonging at prospective postsecondary institutions is associated with their parents’ highest level of education, and whether this relationship is moderated by the source of college advice. Data from a diverse sample of high school students in Illinois (N = 234) were analyzed using linear regression models. Results showed parental education alone did not significantly predict students anticipated belonging. Students who relied on formal advice sources (counselors, teachers, mentors) reported significantly higher anticipated belonging at match schools compared to those who received informal advice (family or peers). However, no significant interaction was found between parental education and advice source. Results highlight the importance of formal advising in strengthening students’ academic self-perception and sense of institutional fit. Implications for reducing college undermatch and expanding equitable access to supportive advising networks are discussed.
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